Revenge is simmering in Pt Chevalier ahead of the SAS Fox Memorial Premiership, as they take on reigning premiers, the Glenora Bears this Saturday.

After losing the 2017 grand final to the Bears, Pirates coach Zane Pocklington is confident in his opening-round team.

“We’re looking good, all the boys have brought into the hard work during the off season, and we’ve got depth,” he said.

“Our reserves won the competition last year, so we have a lot of young boys pushing for spots and a few wise heads coming back.”

Current holders of the Stormont Shield, Pocklington said it’s great to have trophies in the cupboard, but the two competitions points is what really matters in round one.

“It means we have a little confidence heading in, we just hope to play some good football and see if the work done in the off-season transfers onto the field,” he said.

“Credit to Glenora for their win last year, there’s no doubt that they will be in great shape.”

Pocklington said the loss of Dylan Moses has opened an opportunity for a younger Pirate.

“Any time you lose a Dylan Moses, it’s always hard to try and replace a player of that calibre, he was a key component of all six finals the club has made recently.

“In terms of how we will play, Dyl [Dylan] was a very dynamic footballer so we’ve had to peel back a little and go back to a more traditional side of football.

“We wish Dyl the best of luck, he’s done nothing but great things for our club.”

Words: Savannah Tafau-Levy